Friendship Circle Hebrew School’s innovative and developmentally appropriate program is dedicated to providing opportunities for children who have special needs to develop their spiritual growth through experiencing religious practices. The program focuses on functional Jewish education, with an aim of promoting an active Jewish life by teaching daily Jewish life skills, knowledge, and concepts. As a result, students acquire a sense of identity and inclusion as members of the Jewish community.
Every Jewish person, regardless of age, gender, and ability, shares the same need for religious connection and community. The Friendship Circle is predicated on the belief that each and every individual can be a productive member of the Jewish community and society as a whole.
Children who have special needs are at risk of social, religious, and cultural isolation. These children require a specialized education that is not currently available in local South Broward schools. Friendship Circle Hebrew School’s innovative and developmentally appropriate program is dedicated to providing opportunities for children who have special needs to develop their spiritual growth through experiencing religious practices. As a result, they acquire a sense of acceptance and inclusion as contributing members of the Jewish community.
Another unique facet of the Friendship Circle Hebrew School is the opportunity for teen volunteers to develop meaningful relationships with the children. By befriending and aiding in the children’s Jewish education, the teens develop compassion, understanding, responsibility, and their own sense of self worth. They are more likely to become adults who are comfortable with people having different abilities and will stay involved with this population.
The Friendship Circle Hebrew School aims to inspire and be a catalyst for an integrated Jewish community comprising of children with special needs, typical teen volunteers, staff, and the families and extended communities of all involved. The Friendship Circle Hebrew School addresses a vital need in the South Broward Jewish community.
The Friendship Circle of South Broward and its new Hebrew School for children with special needs is led by Rabbi Levi and Dassy Tennenhaus, program directors of Chabad of South Broward Headquarters.
The first day for this exciting program will be Sunday, October 11. For more information call 954-558-7005.